Cat In An Aqua Storm

In fact, nothing would get me within one hundred yards of this scene of dirty dancing and naked death, were not this sweet little doll of my acquaintance in the vicinity. From the first, the Divine Yvette has been forced into a position that offers the worst of two worlds. She has been left untended, yet confined to a canvas cage. She had been abandoned and trapped at one and the same time.

Naturally, I have kept a close eye on the Divine One's disposition and comings and goings. It is no great feat to arrive at the dressing area early in the morning in anticipation of Yvette’s arrival on the arm of her mistress, Miss Savannah Ashleigh.

Usually the latter can be counted upon to arrive no earlier than ten in the morning, and then only under duress. However, I wish to take no chances and post myself in the cavernous costume storage area by nine, the better to avoid attention.

I admit that I am playing more here than the love-stricken swain. In the back of my mind is a notion that I may have an opportunity to get a better look at Black Legs. Given the demise of the lissome lady in the ballroom while wearing an ensemble, such as it was, that paid tribute to my breed, I am more eager than ever to cross paths with this murderous abuser of little dolls, be they human or feline.

As I await the arrival of my feline friend, I recline on and under the ruffled train of a Flamenco skirt, inhaling an unhealthy attar of powder, sweat and mothballs.

Such contemplative times are my favorite. I picture myself tracking and cornering Black Legs in the fatal dressing room. I see an admiring circle of humans agape at my exploits. Miss Temple Barr sheds tears of remorse and promises never again to take me to the House of Dr. Death.

There will be another photograph in the local rag, of course: tiresome, and hard on the peepers, but I am so photogenic. Perhaps also a small reward—a goldfish, say. Or several. And the lovely Yvette standing by, unnoticed by the applauding police and officials, her big blue-green eyes beaming with pride and adoration.